The SNP are always quick to claim they are the party of diversity. During their 2019 conference, they unanimously agreed that measures should be taken to increase the number of BAME candidates standing in the upcoming 2021 Holyrood election. In response, 22 minority-ethnic party members put themselves forward for selection, but unfortunately the party only chose one of them. Justice Secretary Humza Yousaf described the result as 'beyond disappointing' and rebuked his party for its seeming inability to live up to the goal of greater inclusion. In addition, recently leaked details of internal discussions saw the party's diversity drive portrayed as 'window dressing'.
Even more disturbing are the complaints that selection rules were breached in favour of existing MSPs and councillors, thus disadvantaging BAME members. A leaked email relating to the Clydebank and Milngavie constituency showed that local activists had printed off leaflets in support of Cllr Marie McNair, and delivered them to party members' home addresses. As no candidates were given permission to view members' data, it is presumed that they gained access through the local branch. This was relayed to party headquarters, and an investigation concluded that the rules had been breached, yet no sanctions were imposed. In the end, McNair was selected as the candidate, excluding the younger BAME contender Roza Salih. Clearly, despite the party's warm words around diversity they are less than willing to actually implement the necessary changes.
However, the SNPs neglect of this critical issue extends far beyond internal party politics. The Ethical Standards Commissioner has condemned the Scottish Government over its 'wholly inappropriate' attempt to dodge scrutiny when handing out top civil service jobs. Ministers have suggested that they should draft their own code of practice when it comes to filling key positions. The public sector watchdog expressed fears this would allow such appointments to 'fall under the radar', at a time when progress towards equitable representation among public sector bosses was 'stalled or declining'. Commissioner Caroline Anderson framed it as an attempt to 'preclude parliament from holding the Scottish Government to account for a lack of progress on diversity'.
Overall, SNP commitments to improve representation have translated into little if any concrete action. Not only is their party divided over the issue, but their approach to Government has seen diversity side-lined in favour of the independence agenda. The Scottish Conservative Friends of BAME (SCBAME) are working alongside the Scottish Conservative party to offer an alternative that moves away from the divisions of the past. Instead, seeking to create equality of opportunity for all, regardless of background or affiliation.